August 2012 Classic Trucks Letters - Postage Paid

Jim, once again you have hit the feelings of many right on the head. Your references to wrenching on any project as being “therapy” could not ring more true. When I lived in Florida, my friend had a ’50 Chevy sedan delivery we worked on. It really did take away much of the stress of a 9-to-5 job. As long as there was some visual progress, we felt satisfied and knew we were one step closer to completion.

I have thought of another subject that may be worthy of one of your editorials. That is the perception of one’s project and all of the flaws that are part of it. I can’t help but know all the imperfections that are part of my truck. However, just about any onlooker will never see those flaws and even if they are relatively out in the open, the overall look of the truck will negate those flaws. It is difficult for a builder to be completely satisfied with his or her truck, but as long as you hear from spectators at shows or from just driving down the street, the comments about how bitchin’ your truck is always makes the build worthwhile. So keep up the great work you are doing on the magazine. Your insights and honest thoughts are greatly appreciated.

Bob CramsieVia email

Hi Bob, I’m happy you agree that wrenching on a classic pickup project can be therapeutic. Your thoughts regarding our critical eye when it comes to our own work rings true as well. Few vehicles can be considered flawless and even those cannot be perfect in the true sense of the word. As a hobbyist I can say with confidence my finished projects are light years away from flaw-free, but like you say, they do look pretty darn cool from 20 feet away and 20 mph.

The hobby is supposed to be fun, and though working toward perfection is worthy I still can’t see myself ever reaching it—but as long as they end up at least safe and respectable I’m happy. Thanks again. RIZ

Riz, love the mag and all your help, so here goes. I picked up an all-original 1956 Ford F-350 1-ton dually. The F-100 & F-350 cabs are identical. Can’t find anybody who makes a dropped front axle. I have an ’88 Chevy 1-ton dually that’s my daily driver. The ultimate situation for me would be to mount the cab on my Chevy dually and slam it back down in the weeds. Or, could the front be clipped? Nobody in my area seems to want to tackle this job, even though I have the cash. I would love your input.

Reyes CastellanozVia email

Hello Reyes, to be totally honest, I’m not 100-percent sure a ½-ton F-100 dropped axle will bolt up to the 1-ton’s leaf springs, but I’m sure the folks at Classic Performance Products (www.classicperform.com) would be able to help you out (they manufacture and sell dropped axle assemblies for F-100s). That said, I like the chassis swap idea myself, though clipping the frame with a donor or an aftermarket frame clip is a good option as well. Best of luck whichever way you decide to go. RIZ

C’mon Jim, seriously. I understand you are just doing part of your job plugging for companies who advertise in your magazine, but this is really getting a little crazy (reproduction Chevy cabs). Do you really think they are “far less than you would invest in a shaky old rust bucket?” Whatever happened to the days of doing everything yourself? I will keep my “barnyard survivor” and my sense of accomplishment my son and I are gaining by not buying every new product that comes out to benefit some shop. Geez, if I had an extra $7,000 lying around, I would finish my truck! I do enjoy most things you put out though. Thank you.

JTVia email

Hi JT, thanks for taking the time to drop me a line. The availability of reproduction cabs are basically for those less talented or have less time to spend in the garage than you or I. Don’t forget, there’s a ton of folks out there that love old trucks, but have way more money than time or skill. Those of us that do should be able to determine what stories pertain to us busted knucklers and which are aimed at those less skilled.

Hello Bill, when it comes to paint and body supplies I’m hooked on products and materials from two sources, the Eastwood Company and Summit Racing Equipment. Both companies offer everything you’d need to repair, prep, and paint a classic truck. Both offer high-gloss finishes as well as flat and semi-gloss finishes too. I suggest taking a few minutes and checking out the offerings from both companies at www.eastwood.com and www.summitracing.com. You’re sure to find just what you’re looking for. RIZ